Suitcase or travel bag? The comparison in 2025

There are many types of luggage on the market today, and it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. If you’re planning a trip, you’ll need to choose between a suitcase and a travel bag . Here are some things to consider when making your decision.

The advantages of the suitcase

By opting for a suitcase , you will have more choice in terms of formats, designs, colors but also materials and the numerous models that exist on the market.

The resistance

Suitcases , especially hard-sided suitcases , are more durable than travel bags, which is advantageous if you are carrying fragile items or just want to make sure your belongings are well protected.

Unlike travel bags, most suitcases are equipped with a security system (padlock, TSA lock, handle containing a security system), which is much more reassuring when you have to part with your belongings, or simply to deter malicious people from trying to steal your personal belongings.

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This suitcase has a TSA combination lock. Not only is the suitcase secure, but it is also approved by airports around the world thanks to its TSA lock, which allows all airport screeners to check the contents of your luggage without damaging it.

Travel in the hold

Due to the lack of security systems on travel bags, it is not recommended to use them for hold luggage. If you need to use a hold luggage allowance, choose suitcases with a security system.

Knowing that a lot of travel involves this stage, suitcases are therefore more practical in this respect and will therefore be suitable for most of your trips.

The advantages of the travel bag

Travel bags are much lighter than suitcases, which is a big advantage, especially for extended trips. Here are the average weights by travel bag category on our Baage website:

Travel backpacks are very lightweight and are the perfect addition to your suitcase to accompany you in the airplane cabin or for a train journey. In addition, the average capacity of cabin suitcases is between 30 and 40L, while their weight often approaches 3kg! For very short trips (2 days / 1 night), it can sometimes be wise to choose a backpack over a cabin suitcase.

Travel bags and trolleys are the same size as a medium or large suitcase, weighing between 3 and 5 kg on average. Travel bags are therefore a great option if you want to travel light.

Expandability and storage spaces

Travel bags have many more pockets than hard-sided suitcases, and therefore more packing space. In fact, by unzipping the side zippers, you can increase the volume of your luggage by 30 to 40%.

While soft-sided suitcases also have additional storage space, backpacks remain a good option because they are still lighter than the average soft-sided suitcase.

Sustainability

Travel bags, despite their soft material, are nonetheless strong and durable. We recommend choosing waterproof materials, which will help preserve the condition of your suitcase and your personal belongings!

The style

While hard-sided suitcases come in all shapes and sizes, soft-sided suitcases aren’t known for their aesthetic appeal. When it comes to travel bags, brands offer more trendy options that are just as sturdy and durable as soft-sided suitcases.

Reference brands

Gentleman Farmer , Delsey, Samsonite and many more, all the major brands offer their range of travel bags, so you can find the perfect model to suit your tastes.

With or without wheels: options for all tastes

Travel bags are flexible and adapt to all uses and travel styles. If you prefer to carry your luggage because it’s difficult to roll it wherever you’re going, then you can opt for bags without wheels!